Inauguration Week
Inauguration Week from March 22-27, 2026
Join us for the Investiture Ceremony of Dr. William M. Downs
Schedule Of Inauguration Week Events
Sunday, March 22
7:00 PM – Worship Service
(Community Welcome)
A worship service celebrating the inauguration of the University’s 6th President.
Location: Butler Chapel
Monday, March 23
7:00 PM – Academic Lecture
(Community Welcome)
Dr. Peter L. Francia
Director, Center for Survey Research
Professor, Department of Political Science
East Carolina University
Location: Student Union Theater
Tuesday, March 24
All Day – Wiggins Memorial Library Academic Symposium
Location: Wiggins Memorial Library, Student Union Ballrooms
5:00 PM – Awards Ceremony (Keynote by Dr. William M. Downs)
Location: Student Union Ballrooms
7:30 PM – Fine Arts Presentation (choral presentation with international repertoire)
Location: Scott Concert Hall
Wednesday, March 25
11:00 AM – Founder’s Day Celebration including Founders Oak Dedication
(Community Welcome)
Location: Academic Circle
4:10 PM – Honors Recital
Location: Scott Concert Hall
8:00 PM – Movie Night
Location: Union Theater
Thursday, March 26
Day of Campbell and Community Service (Community Welcome)
5:00 PM – Cookout with the Downses (Community Welcome)
Location: Saylor Park
6:30 PM – Concert (Community Welcome)
Location: Saylor Park
Friday, March 27
2:00 PM – Investiture Ceremony for the 6th President of Campbell University, Dr. William M. Downs
(Community Welcome)
Location: Convocation Center
Reception to follow (open to all)
Location: Oscar N. Harris Student Union
Meet The President
“Dr. Downs represents everything we hoped to find in Campbell University’s next president. With his extensive experience, deep personal faith, and infectious energy, he is uniquely qualified to elevate Campbell to new heights, while upholding our mission and values.” — Gene Lewis, Trustee Chairman
Meet Dr. Downs